Top Intermediate Level Electric Guitars for Under $500

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1. Fender Player Series Stratocaster

The Fender Player Series Stratocaster is a favorite among musicians looking for versatility and classic rock tones. Here are its key features:

Price: Around $500 Features: Three single-coil pickups Comfortable neck Classic Stratocaster design

It's great for various music styles, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced musicians.

2. Gibson Les Paul Studio

For a more substantial sound, the Gibson Les Paul Studio is a fantastic option. Here’s what it offers:

Price: Just under $500 for used models Features: Mahogany body Dual humbucker pickups Sleek design

This guitar provides a warm, full sound suitable for rock and blues. Its versatile tone and comfortable playing experience make it a standout option.

3. Yamaha Revstar RS320

The Yamaha Revstar RS320 offers a unique sound that is perfect for modern rock and alternative genres. Key features include:

Price: Approximately $399 Features: Unique design P90 pickups for a punchy sound Comfortable neck

The P90 pickups give this guitar a distinctive touch, making it a favorite for those who prefer a vibrant and punchy tone.

4. Ibanez RG450DX

The Ibanez RG450DX is ideal for metal and hard rock players. Its features are as follows:

Price: Around $499 Features: Fast neck HSH pickup configuration for versatile tones Double-locking tremolo system

With this configuration, it provides both speed and tone versatility, making it a powerful choice for metal and hard rock.

5. Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro

For a classic Les Paul sound with modern enhancements, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro is a great choice:

Price: About $499 Features: Beautiful finish ProBucker pickups Classic Les Paul sound

This guitar is perfect for rock and heavy genres, offering both a traditional vibe and modern craftsmanship.

6. Squier Classic Vibe 60s Telecaster

If you prefer the classic Telecaster tone, this is a great option under $500:

Price: Approximately $399 Features: Solid body Classic Telecaster tone Excellent build quality

It’s perfect for country rock and blues, providing a warm and rich sound that’s beloved by many.

7. Schecter Hellraiser C-1

For a high-output sound and a sleek design, the Schecter Hellraiser C-1 is a worthy contender:

Price: Around $499 Features: EMG pickups Sleek design Comfortable neck

This guitar is ideal for metal and hard rock players, offering both speed and power.

Considerations

When choosing an electric guitar under $500, consider the following factors:

Playability: Always try the guitar in-store to find one that feels comfortable. Tone Preferences: Different pickups and body styles will affect the sound. Consider what genres you play the most. Brand Reputation: Look for brands known for quality and reliability.

Your choice should ultimately depend on your personal style and the specific sound you’re looking for. While higher-end instruments may offer more advanced features and increased longevity, many musicians find that intermediate models like those mentioned here can meet their needs perfectly.

Beyond the most basic models like the First Act, guitars in this price range generally focus on both tone and playability. While you can play jazz on an Ibanez or metal on a hollowbody, certain guitars are better suited for specific tonal qualities. For example:

For all-around versatility: A Mexican Strat offers a balanced and versatile tone. I still use my early '90s model, and it’s great for various styles. For heavy rock: An Ibanez RGA would be a good choice. They tend to have a nasally sound, but Ibanez guitars are lightning-fast on the neck. For jazz: A hollowbody like the Epiphone Joe Pass is ideal. It’s both economical and has a rich tone. For acoustic: A Taylor GS Mini or Martin X Series offers excellent sound quality. You can find these used for under $500.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your specific style and preferences. However, it's important to ask more questions than just price and to consider your personal music style when making this decision.